Although known as a hub for bankers and traders, Frankfurt is much more than that. Settled on the Main River, this diverse city is a captivating mix of historical charm and vibrant cultural life. And guess what? You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy all that this city offers! In this post, I’ll take you through 20 free things to do in Frankfurt. You will explore the city’s rich history, beautiful parks, scenic riverbanks, and iconic landmarks—all without spending a coin (or maybe just a few…). Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family with kids, or just looking to enjoy a budget-friendly day out, Frankfurt guarantees great fun. Let’s dive in!
Free things to do in Frankfurt
Soak up the atmosphere of Römerberg.
Römerberg Square is together with the iconic Skyline, one of the city’s benchmarks. This wide square, surrounded by half-timbered houses is a perfect starting point for your Frankfurt Tour. Have a look at the famous Römer building that served as a town hall for over 600 years. If you have time, visit the Altenikolai Kirche (St. Nicholas Church) or the surrounding museums. Stroll around and snap a photo in front of the Fountain of Justice that has stood proudly since the 16th century. This is an ideal place to take in the city’s atmosphere and get familiar with its rich cultural heritage. All for free!
Explore Old Town.
From the Square, turn left. You will find one of the most enchanting areas of the city – The Old and New Old Town. The Neue Altstadt, although a recent reconstruction project, has managed to bring back some of Frankfurt’s pre-war charm. Its charming streets and colorful buildings make a stroll here one of the best free things to do in Frankfurt. The Area is filled with cute coffee shops and restaurants where you can grab inexpensive coffee or brunch.
My tip. Pay attention while passing by the buildings. Many of them have plaques that explain the history of that reconstructed building. It’s a cool way to deepen your knowledge about the city’s history, without paying a penny.
Enjoy the view from the St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral.
This tall, red building, built in the Gothic style, welcomes all visitors for free. Thanks to its height of 95 meters, Frankfurt Cathedral is visible from many parts of the city. It looks spectacular from the outside and the inside, I may say. Although without many decorations and pomp, the interior is very impressive. You can also climb to the top of the church and get a spectacular view of the whole city. The entrance to the Cathedral is free, but you can visit the Church Museum for only 3 euros.
Cross over the Iron Bridge and…
The Iron Bridge is one of the city’s landmarks. Also one of the best free things to do in Frankfurt for several reasons. First, the city was destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history and thus one of the main historical points. Secondly, the bridge is widely known for people leaving many love locks. If you are traveling in a couple, leaving love lock can make your trip more romantic. And maybe the legend is true – and your love lasts forever – who knows? Third, for a wonderful view of the Skyline and the Main River, this bridge is a must-go. With the row of cool tall buildings in the background, amazing shots are guaranteed!
…discover Sachsenhausen.
Crossing over the Iron Bridge will get you to another cool area of the city – Sachsenhausen. This part of Frankfurt was a village until the late 19th century and the main supplier of fish, fruit, and vegetables for the city. This district is now known for its charming cobblestone streets and traditional cider taverns. While sampling the cider might cost you, walking through the district and enjoying the ambiance is free. Many restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries settled here offer a perfect place for catching a breath from all that sightseeing.
The area is also an epicenter of many food and music events, that don’t require a ticket. Almost every Saturday, streets are closed to traffic here and turned into lines of street food stalls and small businesses selling their goodies. These events are usually accompanied by music concerts, and DJ performances that provide a cool, party vibe!
Go to the museum on the last Saturday of the month – it’s free!
The Museumsufer, or Museum Embankment, is one of Frankfurt’s most culturally rich areas and a highlight of the Altstadt district. Situated along both banks of the Main River, this unique area is home to over a dozen world-renowned museums. They cover everything from fine arts and film to architecture and ethnology. While many museums charge an entrance fee, several offer free admission on the last Saturday of the month.
Must-See Museums. They include the Städel Museum, with an impressive collection of European art from the Middle Ages to modern times. In the German Film Museum, where you can explore the history and magic of cinema. Even if you’re not planning to go inside, the walk along the Museumsufer is good enough. The riverside is filled with sculptures, cafes, and green spaces perfect for a picnic with a view of the skyline.
Walk Along the River Main Promenade.
One of the best free things to do in Frankfurt is to take a walk along the River Main Promenade. Also, one of the best ways to experience the city. This scenic riverside stretch offers stunning views of the city’s skyline, charming bridges, and green spaces. The unique architectural blend of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings makes this area popular among locals and tourists. You’ll find many benches where you can sit and take in the view, as well as cafés and street vendors offering local treats. It’s a perfect place to relax, people-watch, or enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the water.
Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there are countless photo opportunities here. Don’t get scared by the big ducks that are freely roaming around the shores (as I did)!
Discover the Nizza Gardens.
One of the most beautiful sections of the River Main Promenade is Nizza Gardens. Just like its name suggests, the architecture and green areas here really remind me of Nice. Located along the northern bank of the Main, is a hidden gem that brings a touch of Mediterranean charm. How to find it? Just head west from the Iron Bridge. With its palm trees, cypress, and fig trees, the Nizza Gardens feels like a little piece of the Mediterranean right in the middle of the city! I felt like I was back in Nice!
Tip: Take a break at one of the riverside cafes for a coffee or a local apple wine. The Nizza Gardens are especially beautiful at sunset- when the sky and the river glow in soft gold shades.
Find out about Bethmannpark.
Located on an area of 3 hectares, Bethmann Park is a true green oasis. Filled with the most diverse types of trees, plants, and flowers, it provides the most peaceful atmosphere. Why it’s on the list of the best free things to do in Frankfurt? In the middle of the Park, behind white walls, you will find a whole new space – The Chinese Garden.
Built in the 80’s, this area was a gift from the Guangzhou family to the country in the name of a long-standing friendship. Although small, the garden has a Chinese Paviglon, lion statues, and a small pond where fish swim. By the very atmosphere, it reminded me a lot of the Japanese Garden in Monaco. All the flower fans will love this place!
Do window shopping at Zeil Street.
You can’t say you went to Frankfurt and haven’t seen the most vibrant street in the city – Zeil. This 500-meter-long street is a pedestrian zone and main shopping street. Here you can find all sorts of clothing, shoes, and accessories, from affordable to luxury ones. Cafes and bakeries too, just as a quick pit stop from all that splurging. Even if you are a budget traveler, window shopping at Zeil can be fun!
Don’t forget of course to visit the main shopping center here – MyZeil, famous for its futuristic architecture. There are many of entertainment inside, as in any shopping mall. A diagonal escalators that run from the ground floor up to the glass rooftop is a cool thing to see!
Visit Alte Oper (from outside).
At the end of Zeil Street, you will find another of the most beloved landmarks – The Old Opera House. This architectural masterpiece was built in the 19th century, in neo-Renaissance architecture, hosting world-renowned musicians and composers. Though it was heavily damaged during World War II, it was restored and reopened in 1981. Today this beauty stands as both a concert hall and a symbol of the city’s resilience and cultural heritage.
While most concerts and events inside require a ticket, the exterior, and the public areas are free to explore. There are though occasionally free concerts so make sure to check out their website regularly.
My tip. Try to visit the Opera House in the evening when the lights give a magical glow to the square.
Taste some yummy food at Kleinamarkthalle.
Hey, foodies, where are you?! If you, like me, like trying out new flavors while traveling, you should check out Kleinmarkthalle. This food market is located in the Old Town and is free of charge to enter. It’s packed with fresh produce, cheese, sweets, flowers, and many local and international delicacies. Many businesses inside offer free tasting, so prepare your palate! Although small, the mix of scents and colors makes this food market a great place to experience the local food culture.
Visit the famous Goethe House.
Goethe House is located in, Old Town offers a glimpse into the early life of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. He was one of Germany’s most influential literary figures. Many museums offer free admission on the last Saturday of the month, as does the Goethe House. Stepping inside, you’ll be transported back to the 18th century. Wandering through rooms filled with period furnishings, original artworks, and his early writings can be an insightful experience.
On regular days, the entry requires a fee, unfortunately. However, you can walk around the exterior and visit the nearby Goetheplatz for free. Don’t worry, The house’s architecture and its surrounding area are well worth a visit!
Go inside the St. Paul’s Church.
If you need some history boost, head straight to Paulskirche! Located in the heart of Frankfurt’s Altstadt, St. Paul’s Church is a symbol of Germany’s democratic history and freedom. Built at the beginning of the 19th century, this red building served originally as a Lutheran Church. In 1848, St. Paul’s Church became the seat of the first freely elected German parliament, the Frankfurt National Assembly. The building was also almost destroyed during World War II but was rebuilt in the 1950s as a national monument. Today, it serves as a museum and place for some occasional political events! The best part? You don’t need a ticket to see it!
Make a selfie in front of the Euro Sculpture – it’s a must!
When you’re in Frankfurt, don’t forget to take a photo in front of the Euro sign! It’s such an iconic symbol and a must-see landmark near the European Central Bank. This 14-meter-high blue and yellow sculpture represents Frankfurt’s significance as a financial hub. Not only for Germany but for the entire European Union.
It was put up to celebrate the introduction of the Euro currency in 2001., while yellow stars represent the EU member states. It’s a cool visual reminder of the unity and strength that the Euro brings. You can find it at Willy-Brandt-Platz, another cool area of the city. It’s a perfect spot to capture a quick photo while soaking in some interesting info about the city’s role in European finance.
Browse the streets of the Höchst District.
If you like exploring authentic areas you will love Höchst District! Located on the western outskirts of Frankfurt, the Höchst District will transform you directly back to the Medieval age! With charming old streets and buildings, Höchst is one of the best free things to do in Frankfurt! What makes browsing this neighborhood one of the best free things to do in Frankfurt is the historic Old Town. Picturesque buildings proudly stand here for centuries. Attractions such as Bolongaro Palace, the Main gate, the Customs Tower, and the Old Town Hall are a must-see!
The main landmark is Höchst Castle (Höchster Schloss). This striking red sandstone fortress was once the residence of the Archbishops of Mainz. The castle grounds, with a moat and a lovely garden, are perfect for a stroll in a charming setting! The district is also known for its vibrant markets, cute coffee shops, and traditional restaurants.
My tip. If you visit on a Tuesday or Friday, you’ll find the Höchster Wochenmarkt. This weekly food market is bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts. It’s a great opportunity to sample local delicacies from Hessian cuisine.
Book a free walking tour.
I love free walking tours because they can be a great introduction to a city. Frankfurt can be a little… underwhelming when you arrive and walk out of the main train station, honestly. That is when these tours become handy because they will recover your motivation to explore the city. Usually guided by the locals, the tours can be a huge source of interesting information, that not many people know. Tipping is desired but not mandatory. The tours can be focused on specific aspects of the city so check out the website Alternativewalkingtour.com and Freetour.com and choose your favorite one!
Have a peek at weekly and flea markets.
Browsing through flea markets can be one of the most fun and free things to do in Frankfurt! Especially if you like “treasure hunting”! Here you can find some unique antique pieces and vintage goodies. The main flea market in Frankfurt takes place every Saturday alternating between Schaumainkai and Lindleystraße. They are open from 09:00 and 2:00 pm and entry is of course free!
If you are a gourmet, indulge your senses at the weekly food markets. The abundance of fresh ingredients from local producers will satisfy your appetite! Due to their regional focus, weekly markets are also among the most environmentally friendly businesses. There are several markets available in the city, but here are some located in the city center:
- Erzeugermarkt Konstablerwache – open every Thursday from 10 am – 8 pm and Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm.
- Schillermarkt – open every Friday from 9 am to 6.30 pm (Don’t miss out on taking a photo by the Bull&Bear Statue when you are there!).
- Blumenmarkt (Flower Market) – open every Friday from 9 am to 6 pm.
Enjoy the serenity of the Botanical Garden.
If you want to visit Palmengarten but you are on a budget, Frankfurt Botanical Garden can be a great option! Located next to the Palmengarden, it is smaller, yet equally impressive. Besides, this green oasis in the north of the city offers free entry all year round. It collects a wide variety of trees, plants from around the world, and flowers intervened by the dense vegetation.
The garden’s layout is purposely designed to give a sense of discovery, with each turn revealing a new environment. In spring and summer, the vibrant colors of blooming flowers create a stunning visual display. In autumn, the garden is transformed into a tapestry of red, gold, and orange hues as the leaves change. One of the highlights of the Frankfurt Botanical Garden is its arboretum. Here you can stroll under the shade of majestic trees, some of which are over a century old. Cool, right?
Go on a hike in City Forest.
Tucked away in the city south, the Stadtwald (City Forest) is an expansive and peaceful green oasis. Covering over 48 square kilometers, It is widely Known as the “lungs of the city,”. It is the largest green area in Frankfurt and one of the biggest forests in Germany. This sprawling woodland is a perfect retreat for anyone in need of some fresh air.
Into Sport? You are in the right place! The forest has many trails and paths, great for hiking, jogging, and cycling. One of the highlights of the Stadtwald is its charming ponds and lakes, like the Jacobiweiher, This serene spot is surrounded by lush woodland where ducks and swans peacefully glide across the water. The area around Jacobiweiher is a popular spot for picnics and family gatherings, with designated barbecue spots. On warm days, you can rent a paddleboat, or simply sit by the shore and soak in the soothing scenery. It is surely one of the most pleasant things to do in Frankfurt free of charge.
Free things to do in Frankfurt – How to get around Frankfurt on a budget?
Frankfurt is a very accessible city and easy to explore without breaking the bank. Here’s how to make the most of your visit while keeping transportation costs low.
Use Public Transportation
Frankfurt has an extensive public transportation system, including the U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (commuter trains), trams, and buses. My biggest recommendation is to purchase a Frankfurt Card, which offers unlimited travel on all public transport within the city. The card can be purchased for one or two days if you are not staying longer. It even includes discounts on entrance fees to popular attractions and museums. A pretty good deal, if you ask me!
Try the Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus
For first-time visitors, the Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus is a great way to see the city’s highlights without spending too much. The ticket allows you to hop on and off at any of the designated stops, covering major attractions. While it may not be the cheapest option, it’s an affordable and efficient way to sightsee. Especially if you have only one day in Frankfurt.
Rent a Bike
Frankfurt is a bike-friendly city, with dedicated bike lanes and scenic cycling routes along the Main River. You can rent a bike from various bike rental services such as Call a Bike by Deutsche Bahn or Nextbike. The prices are reasonable and you can pick up and drop off bikes at multiple stations throughout the city. Plus, cycling is an excellent way to see more of Frankfurt at your own pace!
Explore the city on foot.
Many of Frankfurt’s key attractions, including the Römerberg, St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, and the Zeil shopping street, are located within walking distance of each other. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems and enjoy the city’s diverse architecture and atmosphere. The compact size of the city center makes it easy to explore on foot, so bring your most comfortable shoes!
Use the RMV App
Download the RMV (Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund) App, which helps you navigate Frankfurt’s public transport system. It provides real-time schedules, route planning, and ticket purchasing options. This way you can easily find the most affordable and direct routes to your destinations.
Free things to do in Frankfurt – The best time to visit Frankfurt?
The ideal time to visit Frankfurt largely depends on what you’re looking for. In general, the city is most enjoyable during the spring (April to June). During these months, the weather is mild, the city parks and gardens are in full bloom and it’s lesser crowded.
If you love outdoor activities, travel to Frankfurt in the Summer (July to August). Keep in mind that, it’s also peak tourist season, so attractions and accommodations can be crowded and more expensive. However, if you don’t mind the crowds, this is a good time for enjoying open-air concerts, street festivals, and river cruises along the Main.
If you fancy cold weather and festive charm, visit Frankfurt in Winter! Although it might be quite chilly, December is a great time to experience the Frankfurt Christmas Market. Twinkling lights, city decorations, mulled wine, and holiday treats just make holidays here incredibly joyful!
Free things to do in Frankfurt – Conclusion
With its mix of modern architecture, historical landmarks, and natural beauty, Frankfurt is a city full of surprises. And the best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to experience it. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just wandering the streets, this list of 20 free things to do in Frankfurt will help you make the most of your trip without breaking your budget.
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